I just finally after wanting to do this for years, looked up what kind of bird a heron is ...

 

and I'm totally confused now! I always pictured it to be some kind of bird of prey - like a buzzard or falcon.

But it is a long legged stork like bird that lives close to the waters - Reiher for all the German speakers, who are as clueless as me :-)

 

So what is the story behind this - why a heron, ok I think it catches fish - so it is not totally harmless but not exactly a symbol of fight and war :-?

 

Any explanations - also any images anywhere how these marks look?

Go here to see a heron, http://www.dragonmount.com/Gallery/displayimage.php?album=lastup&cat=0&pos=4

as for why it is significant, i don't know

It's a representation of grace and skill. Watch a Heron wade through the water and you'll understand.

It's the way the heron catches the fish. The heron stands with one leg in the water and waits for the fish. Have you ever tried to catch a fish with your bare hands? The heron waits for the fish and tires to find the perfect moment for his attack. And he can wait for a long time. Patient, grace, skill, light speed, and deadly. Sounds like a real swordsman now doesn't it

It also fits in nicely with the fisher piece from Moridin's game.

Hi thanks everyone - it does start to make sense!